The deadly tornadoes in Alabama are serving as a reminder of how critical it is for emergency management officials in our area to try to be as prepared as possible.
On Wednesday, the state of Kentucky held its annual tornado drill.
Boyd County Emergency Management Director of Information Technology Chris Hutchison says while methods of warning people have expanded greatly since sirens were put in place more than half a century ago, they still serve a critical purpose.
"There are still people who choose not to have smartphones that receive alerts," he said.
Following the devastating twisters in nearby counties the past few years, officials say these drills have taken on an added weight.
"We're trying to help keep them ready in times of crisis, especially with more and more severe weather events starting to become prevalent," Hutchison said.